Utah Lake
(May 2007)
The Utah Lake basin will begin the spring runoff season with very low snowpack and very little precipitation. April precipitation was much below average at 48%. The seasonal accumulation was 76% of average. The snow water equivalent for sites that contribute to the Provo River Project is very low ranging from 0% to 62% of average. The reservoir storage, on the other hand, is looking good due to carryover and will allow for a normal irrigation season this year. Jordanelle Reservoir is at 81% of capacity with 257,000 acre-feet, Deer Creek is at 98% of capacity with 148,000 acre-feet, Strawberry reservoir is at 85% of capacity with 941,000 acre-feet and Utah Lake is full.
There will be full allotments to water users this year. Unfortunately, if we have another dry year there might be some issues next summer. Fortunately, most cities and towns in the Utah Lake basin use a combination of water sources including springs, ground water pumping and surface water. Many cities in Utah County have been involved in a groundwater modeling study that will help them understand the groundwater system and determine regional management strategies. Cities are continuing efforts to provide secondary water systems to water lawns and gardens and to encourage conservation efforts through city ordinances and volunteer conservation measures.
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